Concept Validation of an Automotive Variable Flow Water Pump With an Eddy Current Magnetic Coupling

This work presents the steps for validating a new topology of magnetic coupling with direct application in automotive water pumps. Starting from analytical studies, a model in two dimensions for simulation by finite elements was created, whose effectiveness was proven with the performance measured by the construction of a prototype. Based on the eddy current coupling technology, the amount of power transferred can be adjusted according to the desired engine operating temperature. This technology consumes less electrical current in comparison with a motor-driven water pump since the primary pumping power source is the combustion engine. Another advantage is the residual torque operating mode that uses the magnetism generated by permanent magnets in the absence of electrical power, which is an important function to protect the engine against overheating in the case of an electrical failure. The results presented here validate the concept regarding the controllability of the device and highlight points to improve the machine’s performance, thus facilitating new developments and future work.